Knoxville Disaster Risk Score & Hazard Analysis
With a population of 618,226 and a calculated risk score of 85.2, Knoxville faces unique challenges. This page is a complete hazard risk assessment for Knoxville, TN. Settling down in Knoxville means embracing the local culture. However, it also comes with specific weather patterns. Specifically, the area has a heightened risk of lightning.
Total Risk Score
Our algorithm assigns Knoxville a Risk Score of 85.152 out of 100. This score is heavily influenced by the high probability of Lightning and Ice Storm.
Top Hazards for The Knoxville Area
The geographical layout of Tennessee means that emergency services prioritize readiness for these lightning scenarios. Therefore, deep learning models analyzing weather patterns output this risk metric of 98.9. Staying off the roads during a severe lightning event is the safest choice.
As population density grows in Tennessee, future climate projections suggest an uptick in ice storm severity. However, our modeling, based on FEMA and NOAA datasets, assigns a score of 97.5/100. Power outages often accompany these events, making backup power (like batteries) essential.
Comparisons of local data to the rest of Tennessee reveal, Knoxville faces a critical challenge with tornado events. In light of this, with a calculated Risk Score of 96.8, this hazard ranks among the top concerns. Identifying a safe, windowless interior room is part of basic move-in preparation here.
Winter Grid Failure Guide
Knoxville has significant winter storm risk. Learn the thermodynamics of survival when the power goes out.
The Apartment Fortress
Living in Knoxville? Learn how to handle water storage, sanitation, and security in a small space.
How to Prepare in Knoxville
Read the Full Guide →General preparedness is critical for Knoxville. While specific risks vary, the fundamentals of survival—water, food, and information—remain the same.
Critical Action Checklist
- 1Keep a physical map of the local area in case GPS fails.
- 2Maintain a 3-day supply of non-perishable food and water.
- 3Have a first aid kit and a supply of prescription medications.
- 4Keep a battery-powered radio to stay informed during power outages.
- 5Establish a family communication plan for when cell towers are down.
Essential Gear for Knoxville
Water
Sawyer Products Mini Water Filtration System
Filters up to 100,000 gallons. Essential when tap water is compromised.
Power
Petzl Actik Core Headlamp
600 lumens and rechargeable. Hands-free lighting is critical during power outages.
Home
Gorilla Tape (Black)
Heavy-duty tape for emergency repairs, sealing windows, or medical improvisation.
Your safety depends on your readiness. Start building your emergency kit for Lightning now.
View Complete Gear Checklist →Compare Nearby Cities
| City | Risk Score | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| Nashville | 95.0 | Nashville and Knoxville share similar regional risks, but our data gives Knoxville the edge in overall safety. |
| Memphis | 98.9 | When compared to Memphis, Knoxville is statistically safer. The difference of 13.7 points highlights local geological and meteorological variations. |
| Chattanooga | 88.9 | Choosing between Knoxville and Chattanooga? Knoxville presents a lower overall risk profile. |
| Clarksville | 79.0 | Choosing between Knoxville and Clarksville? Knoxville presents a unique set of challenges. |
| Murfreesboro | 81.9 | Murfreesboro and Knoxville share similar regional risks, but our data gives Murfreesboro the edge in overall safety. |
Frequently Asked Questions
How common are Lightnings in Knoxville?
With a risk score of 98.9 for Lightning, Knoxville is considered highly vulnerable. Residents should have a specific plan for Lightning events, which are the primary driver of the city's overall risk profile.
Is Knoxville safer than other cities in Tennessee?
It varies by hazard. While Knoxville has its own risk profile (Total Score: 85.2), it is generally comparable to the average in Tennessee. See our state rankings for a direct comparison.
Should I move to Knoxville given the risk of Ice Storm?
Every city has risks. The threat of Ice Storm (Score: 97.5) is manageable with proper preparation. The local infrastructure in Knoxville is designed to handle this, but personal insurance and a 'go-bag' are recommended.
How does Knoxville compare to other cities in Tennessee?
See the full Tennessee Disaster Rankings to see how Knoxville stacks up against other cities in the state.